Other State Information

Public Drainage Task Force Report

In July 1998, the Choptank River Tributary Team wrote the DNR
Secretary raising a potential conflict between non-point nutrient
and sediment controls that slow down water movement and the need for
adequate land drainage through established public drainage systems.
The letter recommended development of best management practices
through interagency consultation between DNR, Departments of the
Environment and Agriculture, the State Highway Administration, and
local jurisdictions.

After endorsement by the Governor's Chesapeake
Bay Cabinet, the Cabinet Chair convened the Public Drainage Task
Force. The Task Force comprised a broad based group, including
representatives of the agricultural, legally-established, Public
Drainage Associations as well as local environmental groups to allow a greater exchange
of information and ideas, greater buy-in of proposed solutions,
and better consideration of issues beyond those associated with
Public Drainage Association operations and maintenance. The Task
Force was charged with creating a 'win-win' solution for the
agricultural community and the environment of our Eastern Shore.

The report was completed in October 2000, endorsed by the
Governor's Chesapeake Bay Workgroup, and forwarded to the Chesapeake
Bay Cabinet for implementation. This entire effort exemplifies the
important role the Tributary Teams are playing in identifying and
bringing significant local and regional watershed issues to the
attention of Maryland state agencies. Beyond the role the Choptank
Tributary Team played in raising the original matter,
representatives from all Eastern Shore Tributary Teams were active
members of the Task Force. This commitment and participation is
itself a "win-win" solution for Maryland.